FAQ

What is Design and Build ?

Design and build is a term describing a procurement route in which a single contractor is appointed to design (or complete the design) and then to construct the works. This is as opposed to a traditional contract, where the client appoints consultants to undertake the design and then a contractor is appointed to construct the works.

Design and build can be advantageous in terms of time as it allows the overlap of design and construction reducing the overall project delivery time.

The fact that there is a single point of responsibility for the client to deal with once the contract is awarded can also make things simpler. The client is also able to engage with the contractor and their design team or supply chain earlier in the design process to try and achieve a more practical or buildable solution if necessary.

What about design process ?

Design and build is usually considered very effective with simple construction projects where design is not an imperative. With Level Five DB this scenario is turned upside down. We are stubbornly designer led. Our team is coming both from Architectural and Construction background, and that fact reflects the quality of our work. Our sister company Faris K associates is in charge for architectural design, Magenta for planning issues, and Tailored Living for Interiors.

What about construction process ?

In the process of construction, we are enabling you to see exactly where we are, with both the timing and the budget at any time.

We promise not to exceed our budget and stick to agreed deal. Every change to your specification, being a major alteration or change in wallpaper design, will be agreed in advance. No surprises with Level Five DB!

What about contract and client protection ?

The Design and Build contract is effectively a warranty and includes a number of mechanisms to protect the client:

  • Retention and rectification period - The employer holds 1.5% retention for 12 months following completion to remedy any defects
  • Limitation Act - Contractor has 6yrs liability for any inherent defect caused by bad workmanship
  • Product warranties - all the equipment, products, membranes etc. will have a manufacturers warranty which should be incorporated in the O&M’s and be completed by the employer at PC
  • Design defects - if a defects manifests in the future from negligent design (e.g. - structural error) then the consultancy team will have Professional indemnity insurance and the employer should have collateral warranty.

How much it will cost ?

We fully understand the cost is a very important part of decision making. It will depend on so many factors such as the scale of the project, scope of work, type of property and level of specification.

We are always able to offer very competitive prices for corporate clients for much more sophisticated projects.

How Long it will take ?

Again, it will depend on the scope of work, but our guidelines are as follows

  • Feasibility, preliminary design and planning application (if needed) 2-4 weeks
  • The planning application process takes around 8 weeks, and in the meantime, we will prepare all of the documentation, specification and contract documents. If the planning is not required, we will start with work on site approximately 6 weeks after inception.
  • An average apartment will take around 4 months to complete, and a complete house renovation with extension, between 5 and 8 months.
  • We have fast track method for corporate clients and are always able to refurbish large number of similar units for a very short period of time.